Political Turmoil in Bihar: Nitish Kumar Inches Closer to Break-Up with RJD, Tejashwi Yadav Keeps a Cautious Distance

In a dramatic turn of events in Bihar’s political landscape, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar appears to be inching closer to severing ties with his ally, the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD). The unfolding situation suggests that Nitish Kumar might make a decisive move on Sunday, potentially leading to the formation of a new government in collaboration with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Political Crisis Unfolds in Bihar

RJD leader Tejashwi Prasad Yadav, anticipating the escalating tension within the alliance, took a proactive approach by convening a meeting with his party’s Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) on Saturday. Tejashwi emphasized the need for the legislators to communicate their achievements to the public independently and to dissociate the party from Nitish’s decision to break ties, if it indeed happens.

Tejashwi reportedly conveyed to his MLAs that the responsibility of explaining Nitish Kumar’s actions rested with Nitish himself. He urged them to make it explicitly clear to their constituents that Nitish was the one “deserting” the alliance, absolving the RJD of any responsibility for the potential rupture. Despite internal pressure from some RJD legislators favouring the withdrawal of support to the government, Tejashwi maintained a cautious stance, insisting that their actions should not give the impression that the RJD forced Nitish’s hand.

Bihar’s Political Chessboard

“We will go to the people and tell them how we were moving in the direction of keeping our promises of giving 10 lakh jobs,” Tejashwi asserted during the meeting, underlining the party’s commitment to its electoral promises.

As the political chessboard unfolds, the numerical composition of the Bihar Legislative Assembly adds complexity to the evolving scenario. The RJD, with 79 seats, the Congress with 19, and three Left parties together holding 16, comprise a total of 114 MLAs. However, this falls eight shorts of a majority in the House of 243.

On the other side of the aisle, the JD(U) with 45 MLAs and the BJP with 78, supplemented by the support of one independent legislator, command a combined strength of 124 MLAs. This numerical advantage places Nitish Kumar in a strategic position, potentially providing him with the necessary backing to explore a new political alliance.

RJD’s Tejashwi Urges Caution as Nitish Kumar Edges Closer to Alliance Break

A senior RJD leader expressed a resolute stance, stating, “We will not give Nitish Kumar any excuse. He is deserting us. We are not to blame for anything. Nor are we going to stake claim to form the government. We will wait for Nitish to falter on his own,” indicating a strategic decision to let Nitish face the consequences of his actions without directly intervening.

In response to the impending political rupture, the JD(U) launched a direct attack on the RJD. Neeraj Kumar, JD(U)’s chief spokesperson, criticized the RJD leadership, stating, “RJD leadership is restless. It has been in the habit of taking land for jobs but it could not gain anything in recent appointments of our 2 lakh teachers recently.” The exchange of accusations and blame highlights the heightened tensions between the erstwhile allies.

BJP Signals Support for Nitish Kumar in Bihar

The BJP, sensing the changing political landscape, held a strategic meeting on Saturday. While party leaders officially termed it “pre-scheduled” in preparation for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls, sources revealed that the discussions primarily revolved around the evolving political conditions in Bihar. Notably, it is learned that the BJP has reportedly accepted the condition of Nitish Kumar continuing as Chief Minister, with two deputy CMs from the BJP, signalling a potential recalibration of alliances in the state.

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Adding another layer to the unfolding drama, Hindustani Awam Morcha (Secular) leader Santosh Kumar Suman declared support for Nitish Kumar with the party’s four MLAs. He categorically denied receiving any offer from the RJD, reinforcing the narrative that Nitish Kumar’s decision to break ties was voluntary.

Meanwhile, senior Congress leader Jairam Ramesh disclosed that attempts to contact Nitish Kumar were unsuccessful. Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge had reportedly tried to reach out to Nitish Kumar to discuss the evolving situation, underscoring the complexities of the political manoeuvring in Bihar.